My Boys Lego Sets Are Keeping Me Busy

I recently downsized my space, and as a result, one of my first problems to tackle was what to do with my boys’ many LEGO sets. As avid LEGO builders with lots of aunts, uncles, grandparents, and family friends, they seem to receive a new set almost every other month, which means I am constantly on the hunt for how to display their masterpieces when they are not zooming around my home in imaginative play.

First off, I must add, these masterpieces seem to be increasing in size and complexity. I am amazed whenever my oldest completes a 600-piece set, and I learned the hard way how delicate they can be. On one of my cleaning episodes, I erroneously dropped one of the sets, and the tiny pieces flew to various corners. My son was upset for a few hours and gave me stink eyes while he had to redo the set. Yes, it was a dark day in the Richards home. If you want to know how I truly feel about LEGO pieces, check out LEGO TOYS: A PARENT’S WORST NIGHTMARE?

A few years ago, before they got into building LEGO sets, I used to sort the LEGO pieces by color. I had a couple of storage vessels with little compartments, and I would stuff each section with a different color after they were done. I was on top of the world with my organization. Nowadays, they never dismantle the sets, so I was forced to come up with new innovative solutions on how to solve this new parenting conundrum.

Assessing Your Space and Needs for Lego Sets

Evaluate the Available Space

Before investing in LEGO storage solutions, take a moment to assess your available space.

• Measure the designated LEGO storage area and identify underutilized spaces like walls, under the bed, or closet doors.
• Look for multi-functional furniture that can double as storage, such as ottomans, beds with built-in drawers, or storage benches.
• Consider how easily your child can access their LEGO sets and return them to their proper place.

Categorize and Declutter Lego Sets

A big part of organizing LEGO sets is ensuring you’re not holding on to unnecessary clutter.

• Sort sets into categories such as completed masterpieces, in-progress builds, and loose pieces.
• I have a rule to always donate sets of previous seasons, once they get new ones or I make them store away sets that are rarely played with.
• My boys are good at deciding how to rotate the displayed sets regularly to keep their playtime fresh and reduce clutter in small spaces.

Innovative Storage Solutions

Vertical Storage

When floor space is limited, take advantage of vertical storage options:

• Install wall-mounted shelves or floating shelves to display completed LEGO sets.
• Use pegboards or hanging baskets for minifigures and small builds.
• Attach mesh nets or hanging organizers on walls or doors to store loose LEGO pieces.

Under-Bed Storage

The space under the bed is often overlooked but can be a fantastic place for LEGO storage:

• Use rolling storage bins or pull-out drawers to store completed sets while keeping them accessible.
• Label bins to make it easier for kids to find and put away LEGO pieces.
• Store seasonal or less frequently used LEGO sets in vacuum-sealed bags under the bed.

DIY and Budget-Friendly Hacks To Store Lego Sets

Repurpose Household Items

You don’t need to spend a fortune on storage solutions, get creative with household items:

• Over-the-door shoe organizers work great for storing LEGO minifigures or smaller sets.
• Hanging fruit baskets can be used to store loose LEGO pieces.
• Old bookshelves can be repurposed by adding bins or baskets for LEGO organization.

Label Everything

Labels help maintain order and encourage kids to put their LEGO pieces away:

• I use designated spots in the house for each of the sets, so it’s easier to return once they are done playing.
• Chalkboard labels or dry-erase labels allow me to update categories as needed.
• Categorizing bins by LEGO set type makes clean-up a breeze.

Utilize Clear Containers

Transparent storage bins make it easy to see what’s inside without digging through everything:

• Stackable bins maximize vertical space and keep LEGO sets tidy.
• Clear storage drawers work well in closets or under tables.
• Small, labeled jars can be used for tiny pieces like extra bricks or special accessories.

Organizing LEGO sets in small spaces doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

With the right approach, you can create a clutter-free, functional, and visually appealing play area. From vertical storage to DIY solutions, there are plenty of ways to maximize space and keep LEGO sets in order. Implementing a display rotation system and labeling storage bins will make it even easier to maintain an organized space. I hope you find some solutions that you can select from above, but I would love to hear in the comments how you have worked through storing lego sets for your home.

FAQs

1. How can I encourage my child to keep their LEGO sets organized?

• Involve them in the organization process and make it fun. Use labels and easy-to-access storage solutions to promote independence.

2. What are some space-saving furniture options for small rooms?

• Consider loft beds, storage ottomans, wall-mounted desks, and display shelves for completed LEGO sets.

3. How often should I rotate my child’s LEGO displays?

• Every few weeks or once a month, depending on their interest and the number of sets available.

4. Are there any LEGO storage options that double as display cases?

• Yes, acrylic display cases, wall-mounted shelves, and glass-front cabinets work well for showcasing completed builds.

5. How do I manage LEGO overflow from gifts and holidays?

• Implement a one-in-one-out rule: for every new LEGO set, consider donating or storing an older one.

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